Unmoored: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe a situation where someone feels lost or without direction, either emotionally or literally, like a boat that is no longer anchored.

• After losing his job, he felt completely unmoored.
• The unmoored boat drifted aimlessly across the lake.

Often used to describe someone or something that is drifting without control or direction. It can pertain to physical drifting or an aimless state of life.

• She felt adrift in her new city, not knowing where to begin.
• The sailor found himself adrift in the open sea after the storm.

Used to describe a lack of emotional involvement or connection. It may imply a neutral or disinterested attitude.

• He seemed detached during the entire meeting.
• Her detached demeanor made it difficult to understand her feelings.

Refers to a state of being apart from others or other things. It is often used in both physical and emotional contexts.

• They have been separated for over a year now.
• The documents should be separated into different categories.

Used when something or someone is no longer attached or anchored, often implying a sense of being lost or without direction. Typically metaphorical.

• Since losing his job, he has felt completely unmoored.
• The boat was unmoored by the strong current.

Specifically refers to the action of loosening or undoing a knot or something tied.

• Please untie the knots on this rope.
• He had to untie his shoes before taking them off.

Often used when something is being freed or let go from a physical, emotional, or contractual hold. Can be both literal and figurative.

• He was released from prison after serving his sentence.
• She released her grip on the rope.

Commonly used in a nautical context to describe the act of letting a boat drift free from its moorings. Can also mean to discard or get rid of something.

• The sailors cast off their lines and set sail.
• She decided to cast off her old habits.